Tag: Wayzata Community Church

WAYZATA — This March, Good Works Community Theatre invites audiences to rediscover wonder, imagination, and the quiet power of kindness with its production of Mary Poppins.

Set in Edwardian London, the beloved musical follows the Banks family as their orderly world is gently upended by the arrival of the mysterious Mary Poppins, umbrella in hand. Through music, dance, and moments of magical realism across London’s rooftops, the story celebrates joy, connection, and the idea that small changes of the heart can transform an entire family — and perhaps a community.

The production arrives during a milestone year for both organizations involved. Good Works Community Theatre is celebrating 25 years of community storytelling, coinciding with the 140th anniversary of Wayzata Community Church, where the performances will take place. Since its founding, GWCT has centered its mission on bringing people of all ages together to create meaningful experiences onstage and beyond.

This year’s cast includes children, teens, and adults from across the Twin Cities area, reflecting that intergenerational mission. Rehearsals, organizers say, have been marked by collaboration, laughter, and a shared sense of purpose.

“Mary Poppins reminds us that wonder isn’t just for children — it’s something we all need,” said Autumn Toussaint, artistic director of Good Works Community Theatre. She noted that the story meets hardship with compassion and imagination, offering a message that feels especially timely. “When we open our hearts to each other and to creativity, transformation is possible.”

All performances are offered as a free gift to the community, though ticket reservations are required. Shows run March 11–15, 2026, at Wayzata Community Church. A disability-friendly, ASL-interpreted performance is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, at 2 p.m.

Tickets and additional information are available at wayzatacommunitychurch.org/marypoppins. For more details, contact Autumn Toussaint at 612-251-3396 or atoussaint@wayzatacommunitychurch.org.

Wayzata Community Church will host an international choral collaboration on Wednesday, September 18, when the celebrated Minnesota-based vocal ensemble Cantus shares the stage with Korgossarna, the academic men’s choir from Uppsala, Sweden.

Now in its 31st season, Cantus has built a reputation as one of the nation’s premier low-voice ensembles. The group is known for its warm, seamless blend, inventive programming, and wide-ranging repertoire spanning Renaissance motets to contemporary commissions. The Washington Post has praised their performances for “exalting finesse” and “expressive power.”

Joining them is Korgossarna—officially the Västgöta Nation’s Male Choir (VGMK)—a lively 30-member student ensemble from Uppsala. The choir balances high-level artistry with wit and camaraderie, performing at formal concerts, national gatherings, and private celebrations. Since 2013, the group has been under the patronage of Prince Daniel of Sweden, and since 2015, led by conductor Rebecka Gustafsson.

The Swedish choir’s visit is part of a cultural exchange coordinated through the American Swedish Institute, marking the 25th anniversary of the sister-city partnership between Minneapolis and Uppsala.

The performance will begin at 7 p.m. at Wayzata Community Church, 125 Wayzata Blvd E. Tickets are available through Eventbrite at: Cantus & Korgossarna Concert Tickets

WAYZATA — The soaring sounds of trumpet and jazz will echo through Wayzata Community Church on Sunday, June 22, as Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter Charles Lazarus brings his acclaimed Lazarus Band to town for a free concert, open to the public.

The performance begins at 3:00 p.m. and promises an afternoon of re-imagined jazz standards, joyful original compositions, and world-class musicianship. Lazarus, a renowned soloist known for his versatility across genres, will be joined by a standout ensemble:

• Tommy Barbarella on keyboards, widely recognized for his work with Prince, New Power Generation, the Jonas Brothers, and Miley Cyrus
• Jeff Bailey on bass, whose credits include New Kids on the Block, the Minnesota Orchestra, and Chastity Brown
• David Schmalenberger on drums, a seasoned performer with both the Minnesota Orchestra and the Children’s Theatre Company

The event is free to attend, with a suggested free-will offering that will benefit Wayzata Community Church’s Good Works Community Theater. Proceeds will support their upcoming production of Mary Poppins, slated for March 2026.

This spirited concert is presented in partnership with CircleRock Concerts for Community, whose mission is to bring live music to meaningful local causes.

Wayzata Community Church is located at 125 Wayzata Blvd E, a beloved fixture in town known for its long history of hosting community-centered arts and outreach.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for seating. Whether you’re a longtime jazz lover or a newcomer to the genre, this afternoon promises to be a lively, family-friendly celebration of musical excellence and community giving.

The Good Works Community Theater is set to enchant audiences, bringing the timeless classic “Annie” to life on stage from March 6 to March 10, 2024.

Located within the welcoming halls of Wayzata Community Church, the community theater is gearing up to transport attendees to Depression-era New York City for a heartwarming tale of hope, optimism, and the enduring spirit of community.

“Annie” is a beloved musical that follows the heartwarming story of a spirited orphan named Annie, who charms her way into the heart of billionaire Oliver Warbucks during the Great Depression.

Filled with memorable songs, optimism, and a touch of humor, the play explores themes of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of love in the face of adversity.

“This is our 14th full scale production, and we are located at Wayzata Community Church,” stated Director Autumn Toussaint.

The cast of 84, including 43 children, showcases the essence of true community spirit by welcoming members from the wider Twin Cities area.

Notably, over half of the cast are not affiliated with the church, reflecting the inclusive atmosphere fostered by the Good Works Community Theater.

Among the diverse cast are both professional actors and first-time performers, creating a blend of talent that mirrors the production’s central theme of unity.

Toussaint described the group that has assembled to put on the production, “It’s true Community and absolute magic to behold.”

The storyline introduces audiences to Annie, a spunky and optimistic character who, despite facing adversity and challenges, remains steadfast in her belief that anything is possible with faith and hard work.

Set in the midst of Depression-era New York City, Annie encounters obstacles ranging from the strict and cruel Miss Hannigan to the conniving Rooster and Lily.

However, Annie’s unyielding belief in the triumph of good over evil becomes a beacon of hope not just for the characters in the play but for the broader audience.

In the spirit of the times, the production aims to deliver a powerful message of hope, fostering a sense of unity and optimism even in the face of challenges.

The theater seeks to emphasize a message of unity, echoing the sentiment that, much like in “Annie,” the sun will indeed come out tomorrow.

Let the countdown to this extraordinary theatrical experience begin, as the Good Works Community Theater promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of “Annie” and the enduring power of hope.

No tickets are required for the show, and doors will open 30 minutes prior to the curtain.

“It’s our gift to the community,” stated Toussaint.

For more information visit this website.